How Ceramic Coatings Are Applied: What to Expect

Once prep is finished, the coating itself goes on panel by panel. It looks simple from a distance, but timing and lighting make the difference between a flawless finish and a streaky one.

Applying the coating

A few drops of coating go onto a suede applicator wrapped around a foam block. The installer spreads it over a small section, usually two feet by two feet, in overlapping passes in two directions to ensure even coverage.

Flash time

After application, the coating begins to flash, meaning the carrier solvents evaporate. You can often see a rainbow or sweating effect. The window for leveling depends on the product, the temperature and the humidity, and it can range from under a minute to several minutes.

Leveling and buffing

Once it flashes, the installer wipes the area with a short-pile microfiber to level the coating, then buffs with a second clean towel. Wiping too early removes product; waiting too long leaves a high spot, a dark smeary patch that hardens and has to be polished off.

Inspection

Bright inspection lights are used constantly to check each section from different angles. High spots are much easier to fix in the first hour than after the coating cures.

Additional layers

Some coatings call for a second layer after a set waiting time. Wheels, glass and trim can be coated with products designed for those surfaces.

Curing

Coatings feel dry within hours but take days to cure fully. Most installers recommend keeping the car dry and out of the elements for at least 12 to 24 hours, with no washing and no soaps for about a week.

Your first week

• Avoid rain and sprinklers if possible.
• Do not wash with soap for about seven days.
• Remove bird droppings gently with plain water and a soft towel.
• Park in a garage when you can.

Following these steps lets the coating reach its full hardness and hydrophobic performance.